Former Hartlepool United midfielder signs for Bristol Rovers

Richard Mennear

FORMER Hartlepool United midfielder Andy Monkhouse has today signed for Bristol Rovers.

The 33-year-old, released from Pools in the summer, has teamed up with Darrell Clarke at Rovers - the former Pools midfielder who is manager at the Conference Premier side.

Clarke told his club’s website: “I am delighted to bring in an experienced player such as Andy.

“Andy is a creative player who can score a goal or two and he’s had a very successful, career to date.

“The pleasing thing is that he wanted to come here for the right reasons and his experience will be invaluable to us.”

Monkhouse, looking to help Rovers get back in the Football League after relegation last season, added: “I have spoken to Darrell a few times and, to be honest, he didn’t have to say too much to me because it didn’t take long to agree terms to join a club the size of Bristol Rovers.

“I’m happy to be here and can’t wait to get started.

“I’ve played against Rovers a few times over the years and I know what it’s like playing at the Memorial Stadium as an away player.

“I’m coming here with a fresh approach and hope we have a successful season and that we can get back into the Football League.”

Monkhouse joined Pools from Swindon Town in January 2007 after spending a couple of months on loan at Victoria Park before then-boss Danny Wilson made it a permanent move for the Yorkshireman.

The versatile forward had appeared in 42 matches for Pools this season, the majority of which came on the left-hand side of midfield, scoring six times for Cooper’s side which made him joint second-top scorer.

In total Leeds-born Monkhouse played 331 times for Pools, scoring 52 goals and helped the club win automatic promotion to League One in the 2006-07 campaign.

Popular with the fans, he always boasted a good goal return during his spell at Pools, which he will be hoping to continue at his new club.